From cutting-edge research to fun children's events, the packed programme that The University of Aberdeen brings to TechFest this September has something for everyone.
Kicking off the University’s contribution, Dr Jonathon Pettitt from the School of Medical Sciences will attempt to separate the hype from the reality when it comes to designer babies. The first babies created with DNA from 3 parents could be born next year and as part of the Café Scientifique series, Dr Pettitt will explore the implications of this and attempt to separate the hype from the reality. This free event will be held at Waterstones, Union Bridge on Wednesday September 16 at 7pm.
Throughout Activity Weekend (September 19 and 20), the team from the University of Aberdeen Dental School and NHS Grampian will show how tooth decay actually happens. In an interactive and dynamic event, visitors will be encouraged to don their gloves and pull out some (pretend) teeth.
Other University of Aberdeen led events include a Health and Fitness Evening (September 21 at Aberdeen Sports Village) where our relationship with food, fat and fitness will be tackled from all angles; a Teddy Bears Hospital (September19 and 20, Aberdeen Medical School) where children can find out how we train healthcare professionals; and a tour round Ocean Lab (September 23, Ocean Lab) including the chance to examine deep sea creatures in the flesh.
TechFest, running from Friday 11 September to Friday 2 October, is Aberdeen and the North East of Scotland’s annual festival of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The University of Aberdeen remains one of the festival’s major supporters and contributors and will host as well as provide many of the main events of the year.
Professor Phil Hannaford, Vice-Principal for Research and Knowledge Exchange who represents the University on the TechFest Board said “The University of Aberdeen is delighted to be supporting TechFest again this year with many of our staff delivering exciting talks and activities showcasing the latest research and discovery.”
Sarah Chew, TechFest Managing Director, added: “TechFest aims to engage young people in the four STEM subjects. A packed programme of informal, informative and interactive events are designed to inspire and encourage young people into these subjects by demonstrating that they are both fun and relevant in day-to-day life.”
The full programme of events can be found at www.techfestsetpoint.org.uk/tis. Tickets for all events at TechFest are available at Aberdeen Box Office www.aberdeenperformingarts.com
ENDS